How to Get a Boston Guitar Tone

Getting that iconic Boston guitar tone is like discovering the secret ingredient to a timeless dish. It’s that perfect blend of warmth, sustain, and just the right amount of crunch that makes Tom Scholz’s sound so distinctive. If you’ve ever cranked up “More Than a Feeling” and wondered how to replicate that sonic magic, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down the gear, techniques, and settings you need to channel your inner Boston rocker.

The Classic Boston Tone: What Sets It Apart?

Boston’s guitar tone is a sound many guitarists chase, but what exactly makes it so special? It’s a combination of several elements that contribute to its unique character. Let’s unpack what goes into creating that signature sound.

Thick, Saturated Distortion

Boston’s tone is known for its rich distortion that doesn’t sacrifice clarity. Unlike the fuzz-heavy distortion of the ’60s, Boston’s sound is more controlled and articulate. This gives each note a clear voice even when played through heavy gain stages.

Singing Sustain

Another defining feature is the incredible sustain. This isn’t just about holding a note for a long time; it’s about keeping the note alive and expressive, as if it’s singing. This kind of sustain allows for dynamic expression, making solos and riffs feel more alive.

Warmth with a Touch of Brightness

The tonal warmth in Boston’s sound is balanced with a hint of brightness. This allows the guitar to cut through the mix without sounding harsh. It’s a delicate balance that creates that lush, immersive sound.

Gearing Up: The Right Equipment for Boston’s Tone

While you can get close to Boston’s tone with various gear, certain pieces of equipment can make the journey a lot easier. Let’s talk about the essential tools you’ll need in your arsenal.

Guitars: The Foundation of Your Tone

Start with a solid guitar that can deliver the sound you’re aiming for. Tom Scholz primarily used Gibson Les Pauls, known for their thick, creamy tones, which are perfect for nailing that Boston vibe. A good Humbucker pickup is crucial here, as it provides the warmth and depth needed for the sound.

Amps: Where the Magic Happens

Amps play a huge role in shaping your tone. Scholz often used a modified Marshall, but you don’t need an exact replica to get close. Look for an amp that offers a strong midrange presence and the ability to push the gain without losing clarity. Many modern amps, like the Marshall DSL series, can offer these characteristics.

Effects: Enhancing the Sound

While the heart of Boston’s tone lies in the guitar and amp, effects pedals can add the finishing touches. A good overdrive pedal can help push your amp into that sweet spot of saturation. Chorus and reverb pedals can add depth and space to your sound, making it more expansive and immersive.

Dialing in the Tone: Amp and Pedal Settings

Getting the right settings on your amp and pedals can be the difference between “almost there” and “nailed it!” Let’s break down how to set up your gear for that Boston sound.

Equalization: Sculpting Your Sound

• Bass: Keep it moderate. You want some body to the sound, but too much bass can muddy the tone.
• Mids: Push the mids. This is where a lot of the warmth and presence of the Boston tone comes from.
• Treble: Add enough treble to give the sound clarity and cut, but not so much that it becomes harsh.

Gain and Volume: Finding the Sweet Spot

Getting the gain just right is crucial. You want enough for saturation and sustain but not so much that you lose definition. Start with your gain around midway and adjust as needed. Volume will also play a role in driving the amp; higher volumes can help achieve that natural tube compression that adds to the sustain.

Effects: Subtle Enhancements

Use effects sparingly. A touch of chorus can add richness to your sound, and a bit of reverb can create a sense of space. Too much, though, and you risk washing out the clarity and punch of the tone.

Playing Techniques: Bringing the Tone to Life

Even with the perfect gear and settings, your playing technique is what truly brings Boston’s sound to life. Here are some tips to help you play like Scholz.

Pick Attack: Precision and Clarity

Boston’s riffs and solos are known for their precision. Pay attention to your pick attack, aiming for clean, articulate notes. A heavy pick and firm grip can help you achieve this level of control.

String Bending and Vibrato: Adding Expression

Mastering string bending and vibrato is key to capturing the expressiveness of Boston’s solos. Focus on smooth, controlled bends and vibrato that is even and not too wide. This adds emotion and depth to your playing.

Chord Voicing: Rich and Full

Experiment with chord voicings to add richness to your rhythm playing. Boston’s music often features lush, full-sounding chords, so don’t be afraid to explore different fingerings and positions.

Recording Tips: Capturing the Boston Sound

If you’re looking to record your Boston-inspired tone, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it translates well to a recording.

Mic Placement: Capturing the Details

Proper mic placement is crucial for capturing the nuances of your tone. Start with a dynamic mic like an SM57 placed close to the speaker cone, and experiment with distance and angle to find the sweet spot.

Layering: Creating Depth

Consider layering multiple guitar tracks to add depth to your recording. This technique can create a fuller, more immersive sound that mimics the lushness of Boston’s recordings.

Mixing: Balancing the Elements

In the mix, balance your guitar tracks so they sit well with other instruments. Use EQ to carve out space for the guitar, ensuring it cuts through without overpowering other elements.

Bringing It All Together: A Step-by-Step Approach

Now that we’ve covered gear, settings, and playing techniques, let’s put it all together with a step-by-step plan to achieve that Boston tone.

1. Start with the Right Guitar and Amp

Choose a guitar with humbuckers and an amp with a strong midrange presence. Set your amp’s EQ to emphasize mids and adjust the gain to get a saturated yet clear distortion.

2. Add Effects Sparingly

Incorporate effects like overdrive, chorus, and reverb to enhance your sound, but keep them subtle to maintain clarity and punch.

3. Focus on Your Playing Technique

Work on your pick attack, string bending, and chord voicings to bring out the expressiveness of Boston’s style.

4. Record and Mix Thoughtfully

Use careful mic placement and layering techniques to capture the full depth of your tone in recordings, and balance your mix to highlight the guitar without overshadowing other elements.

Final Thoughts

Getting the Boston guitar tone is a journey that combines the right equipment, settings, and playing techniques. Whether you’re playing live or recording, these tips can help you capture that iconic sound. At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists to help you master techniques that can elevate your playing. Explore our library and take your guitar tone to the next level.